John Lewis plans significant job cuts amid financial challenges

John Lewis has confirmed it is planning further to cut its workforce over the next five years.

Introduction

John Lewis, the employee-owned retail partnership, is reportedly considering substantial job cuts, amounting to up to 11,000 positions or 10% of its workforce. 

The move is part of the company’s efforts to return to profitability after facing financial pressures and announcing its second-ever full-year loss in March 2023. 

While John Lewis has not confirmed the specific number of job losses, it acknowledged the need for cuts to align with its profit restoration plan. 

The decision comes after the company’s recent measures, including closing stores and scrapping staff bonuses.

Potential Job Cuts and Financial Context

Reports suggest that up to 11,000 jobs at John Lewis, comprising redundancies and not filling vacant positions, are under consideration. The group currently employs 76,000 people across its supermarkets, department stores, and head office. 

Facing financial challenges, John Lewis has experienced increased costs due to factors such as high inflation, rising labor expenses, and elevated energy and freight costs. 

The company is undergoing a restructuring process to enhance its customer offerings, invest in technology, improve store efficiency, and ultimately restore profitability.

Company Statement and Employee Response

John Lewis did not confirm the specific number of job cuts but emphasized the need for efficiency measures to align with its profit restoration plan. 

A spokesperson stated that performance is improving with ongoing investments but acknowledged the unfortunate necessity of reducing the number of partners (employees). The company emphasized that its partners would be the first to receive information about any changes. 

Reports suggest that employees have expressed frustration about a potential reduction in redundancy packages, with some calling for an emergency meeting of the partnership council to address concerns.

Financial Background and Previous Measures

In March 2023, John Lewis announced its second-ever full-year loss, amounting to £234 million, and took steps to address its financial challenges. 

These measures included the closure of 16 department stores and several supermarkets, leading to job cuts. The company attributed its financial struggles to factors such as high inflation, increased labor costs, and rising energy and freight expenses. 

The decision to consider significant job cuts is part of John Lewis’s broader efforts to navigate a challenging retail landscape and restore financial sustainability.

Conclusion

John Lewis’s potential job cuts highlight the ongoing challenges faced by the retail partnership in a competitive and evolving market. 

As the company aims to return to profitability, these measures underscore the need for adaptability and efficiency in the retail sector. 

The impact on employees and the broader implications for the company’s future will depend on the success of its restructuring efforts and the ability to navigate economic uncertainties.